Through the first 10-plus games of the Bill Peters’ era in Calgary, the Flames have one very clear weakness: defence. Specifically in terms of giving up 10-bell chances, the proverbial “leaving the goalie out to dry” play. At the time of writing, the Flames were surrendering 15.6 high danger shot attempts against per sixty minutes of ice at even strength, worst in the NHL.

To put that in context, the Flames were around 10 HDCA/60 last year. Right now, they are giving up almost three times as many close-in chances as the league-leading New Jersey Devils (5.87 HCA/60).

The numbers match the eye test. Breakaways, odd-man rushes, uncontested shots from the slot – the club has made a habit out of giving up high quality looks all too frequently thus far.

That begs the question, is this an execution and talent problem, or is it systemic?